The Hermitage Inn — Restaurant in Dover

When my husband and I decided to get married, we were extremely overwhelmed and had no idea where to even start with planning such a momentous event. We knew that we wanted the wedding to be intimate (not to many guests), in a setting that was surrounded by trees, and in a location that felt like home. Out of all the wedding venues in Vermont, the Hermitage Inn captured everything we were looking for. A gorgeous space and an attentive staff… making the day feel as effortless as possible.

After a short call with the Events Director, Gina, we knew our big day was in good hands. She not only spent multiple hours on the phone with us, but she also provided amazing visuals for us as we were planning this wedding from out of state. I have never met a more dedicated person who works in a hospitality field. Gina is the definition of “going above and beyond” — even meeting us to tour the space on her day off last minute, so we were able to take the big leap in deciding this was our future wedding venue. She puts her entire heart in listening to her couples, understanding their vision, and bringing their dreams to life.

And now to the part of the magical touches… this space is truly one that people are passionate to work for. Everyone who works in the space takes time to learn who their patrons are, so much so, that my husband and I has several interactions with the owners Mary Lou and Tim of the Inn before the wedding even occurred. The Hermitage Inn is not just a space where they churn guests in and out… the waiters to the bartenders to the check in staff all knew who we were, and did everything in their power to make the day special. On the day of the wedding, Tim personally delivered lunch to the bridal party and grooms party. The day after the wedding, when picking up our decorations to bring home, Tim himself was walking the grounds and taking care of some landscaping on his own in the quiet hours of the morning. It’s moments like that where you realize you are receiving first class service without the impersonal aspect of larger hotel and venues.

On the wedding day itself, everyone was available to help where needed. I was looked in the eye, asked what I needed, and was never made to feel alone or out of sorts. Gina herself took our vision and DIY table settings, flowers, and glassware, and within hours had her entire staff create the space into the vision that we wanted. Lucky for us, we got married in the month of October, so the Hermitage Inn already was decorated with beautiful flowers, pumpkins, and corn stalks to provide additional ambience. The food… my husband and I have eaten at the Inn’s restaurant multiple times, and you are truly in for a treat. The high quality, amazing flavors, are exactly what you are served at your private event as well.

I could go on and on about the amazing experience we had with the Hermitage Inn. So many of my guests stated… “this place is like a postcard.” We could not be more impressed with the attention and care we received with our wedding event. Even with a wedding of 30 guests, we were able to have an outdoor ceremony and an indoor reception in the gorgeous Birches dining room. We highly recommend this space for a future event or even a weekend away in Southern Vermont. It is now a place where we call ‘home.’ Thank you Tim, Mary Lou, Gina, and the entire staff of the Hermitage Inn for making our day one we will...

Just returned from our weekend getaway. The room was nice and large, as was the bathroom (but the bed needed down pillows). Both were tastefully decorated. I was glad we were staying in the carriage house, however, since the main inn looks worn and dated. We had stayed in one of the sister hotels (The Inn at Sawmill Farms) years ago and were trying to repeat that wonderful visit. The decorating at that inn was spectacular....more of a decorated boutique hotel/inn. I found out that they were closed for the summer, and asked for the nicest of the 4 or 5 inns that are run by the same corporation. I was disappointed by what the main building looked like. I'm not into rustic. Nor were we happy with lukewarm water for a shower in the morning. That was later fixed at our complaint.

The restaurant was not good at all. We maybe should have known when we were the only guests in a huge dining room. The upholstery on the chairs was so worn down that we felt like youngsters who can't quite reach the table! We thought the place was empty because we went early, but when we left an hour and a half later, only one other table was occupied.

I ordered Caesar salad and it was bland at best. Our waiter was nowhere to be seen to ask for salt and pepper, so my husband had to get up to find a pepper mill. Unfortunately, the one waiter on duty had to go between the dining room and the Tavern and was rarely seen. He was very nice, just given a hard to maneuver task. The bread never came until our appetizers were taken away. It was a good sour dough when it finally arrived. My duck main course was presented nicely, but tough. There was a wonderful citrus sauce that would have helped greatly if they'd given me more than the artfully decorated three dots of it.

We went for breakfast at The Tavern the next morning thinking there isn't much they can do to ruin breakfast. Wrong! My French toast came cold. We were, again, the only ones eating at the time, and the kitchen was not all that far away. My husband's sausage also came cold. When they returned my French toast it was the same pieces, reheated, and not even artfully put on the plate-more like thrown on and not dressed the way they were the first time out. Really unprofessional.

So, needless to say we were disappointed and realize that you can never read the reviews of strangers. Everyone is looking for...

Hosting events at The Hermitage is always a delightful experience.

From the enchanting drive through the covered bridge at the property's entrance, setting the stage for a warm, delightful, and quintessentially Vermont experience, to the array of indoor and outdoor event options, The Hermitage is a canvas for crafting unparalleled celebrations which we have had the honor to provide to our clients over the years. The sprawling lawns, thoughtfully landscaped to host event tents, the serene pond offering a perfect first-look location for couples, and the stone patio overlooking a charming orchard—all these spaces, unique in their own right, seamlessly intertwine, provide an elevated experience for both hosts and guests.

Inside the Inn, you'll find versatile spaces tailored for hosting events— the snug library, delightful den, intimate wine cellar, roomy tavern, and chic dining area. This infusion of the heart and soul by owners Tom & Mary Lou is palpable throughout the property. The exceptional team truly sets The Hermitage apart. The well-vetted and pleasant staff elevate every aspect of the guest experience. Moreover, the commitment to providing high-level customer service and delivering an outstanding culinary experience adds an extra layer of excellence to The Hermitage's offerings.

We want to sincerely thank the Hermitage Team for always welcoming the SHE Luxe Team with open arms. Their commitment, professionalism, and genuine passion for what you do make the event planning process seamless and enjoyable. We value each one of you and eagerly anticipate our next event together!

With gratitude & admiration, Kimberly...